London
The Big Smoke is a fast-paced, exciting and vast city – with never-ending historic city sights, shop-lined streets, pubs, bars, eateries and parks at every turn, here are some of the ones you don’t want to miss…
If you’re in London to see the classic sights, it’s only right that you see them as part of the city’s skyline after admiring them up close. Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden, just a 7-minute walk from our Apex City of London Hotel. Boasting some spectacular scenes from its bougie bar area, with restaurants, events and more, you’re guaranteed to find a top spot for the perfect Instagram snap. For those who are there for some retail therapy, home to some of the best flagships, the shopping scene couldn’t get any better. Famous for being Europe’s busiest shopping street with around half a million visitors a day, Oxford St deserves a mention of its own. However, if you prefer less hustle and bustle, Battersea Power Station and Westfield Shopping Centre are home to the country’s best high street shops, cafes and more. Or, for something a little more luxury, take a day trip to Bicester Village on the outskirts of Oxford and get lost in the ultimate shopping adventure of your dreams.
Bath
This stunning spa town is the perfect city to unwind and be at one with nature. Aside from the top spa experience, Thermae Bath Spa, soak up the sounds and scents of the countryside as you visit Prior Park, both just minutes from Apex City of Bath Hotel. Home to striking landmark The Palladian bridge which is one of only four of its kind to exist in the world, it’s a romantic and inspiring setting to enjoy time well spent with family or friends.
Seeking some history? It doesn’t get much more historic than Sally Lunn’s. Enjoy a range or regional dishes including a traditional ‘trencher dinner’ in the city’s oldest house. A tearoom and restaurant famous for creating a hybrid teacake loved by the locals, it’s one not to miss.
Edinburgh
This capital city has more to it than meets the eye… Hidden in plain sight, 17th century style garden, Dunbar’s Close is open to the public to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Beautifully maintained and manicured, this walled green space runs alongside the city’s Royal Mile, steps from Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel and Apex Grassmarket Hotel - it's the perfect spot for quiet time away from the loud sound of the busy streets.
Steeped in history, it’s no secret that the National Museum of Scotland is a big hit among visitors. But when you’re in there, don’t forget about Dolly! Dolly the sheep is a special specimen that’s on show, being the first every cloned mammal to be created from an adult human cell. Head there to uncover great history and find out what famous singer she was named after, and why!
An admirer of the arts? We’ve got you! With lots of creativity to be uncovered throughout the streets of Edinburgh, the town if Leith has something special on show at Quality Yard. A picture-perfect spot, find yourself surrounded by 360 degrees of street art in a mural completed by eight artists and collectives.
Dundee
The UK’s first UNESCO City of Design is full of new places to discover and plenty of hidden gems to explore. Something worth checking out in the heart of the city close by Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa is Dundee Museum of Transport which features a wide range of classic and modern modes of transportation used throughout the years. You could also uncover Scotland’s oldest surviving medieval church tower – The Old Steeple which has withstood over 500 years of battles and attacks. Visitors can climb the 232 steps to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning views of the city.
Glasgow
People make Glasgow. The city is packed full of world-class museums, top-notch restaurants and shops and, of course, the friendly locals.
On your next visit, plan a trip to Ashton Lane in the city’s West End. The picturesque, cobbled street is adorned with fairy lights and is home to the famous Ubiquitous Chip restaurant among others. History lovers can choose to be inspired by The Necropolis in the city centre, near Apex City of Glasgow Hotel. Inspired by the famous Père Lachaise in Paris, Glasgow’s Necropolis is a remarkable Victorian cemetery adorned with some 3,500 monuments including the grave of Protestant Reformation leader John Knox and a Celtic cross designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
